Energy & Client Retention
The concept of "feeling energy" is often associated with interpersonal interactions and the idea that people emit or project certain vibes, frequencies or auras that can be sensed by others. While this notion is more commonly discussed in spiritual or metaphysical contexts, it can also be explained in psychological terms. I'm sure you've all been in situations where you can FEEL the energy around you, have you not?
1. Non-verbal cues: Humans communicate not only through words but also through non-verbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. These cues can convey emotions, intentions, and moods, which others can pick up on and interpret. For example, if you're feeling confident and positive, you may display open body language, a relaxed facial expression, and a warm tone of voice, which can make others perceive you as approachable and friendly. This is super important in building a client base!!!
2. Emotional contagion: Emotions are contagious, and we tend to pick up on and mimic the emotional states of those around us. This can occur through subtle cues, such as mirroring facial expressions or adopting similar postures, which can create a sense of shared emotional experience. If you're feeling joyful and enthusiastic, it can uplift the mood of others in your presence. (For fun: try to imitate the body language of your client during a consultation...it may make them feel more comfortable, more connected. Then, intentionally bring in some body language of happiness, joy, enthusiasm and watch them mimic you....and feel their energy rise! It's super cool! There are a lot of TedTalks about body language and how people mimic others.)
3. Empathy: Humans have the capacity for empathy, which allows us to understand and share the emotions of others. Empathy involves being attuned to the emotional state of another person, and when we empathize, we can "feel" their energy on an emotional level. If someone is experiencing sadness or distress, their energy can be sensed by others who may feel a sense of compassion or concern in response. (This is such a great quality for us hairstylists to have....but pls be careful to protect yourself and your energy. If you are someone, like myself, who can have their whole day thrown off by a client sharing a sad story...reach out and I will help you with some tools to protect your energy, while still being empathetic towards your client.)
When has there been a time in your life where you felt someones energy and it has effected you?
Do you think that your clients are effected by your energy in a positive or negative way?
You can only change what you are aware of. If you are someone who does NOT have a high client retention rate, I HIGHLY suggest digging into your energy. What kind of vibe do you give off? What kind of things do you talk about? What is your body language like when with clients? Ask around if you don't know.....this is super important!